Grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)

Species information

Videos and images

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Range

Introductions of this species to the UK continued up until 1915. Between 1930 and 1945 it underwent a huge expansion in range; it is now common throughout central and southern England, Wales and the central lowlands of Scotland (3), and is still increasing in terms of range and numbers (5). The grey squirrel has also been introduced to South Africa, Australia (3) and Italy (6). In Italy the species has extended its range into the Alps and Piedmont, and it seems likely that it will now spread throughout much of Europe (6). Its native range extends throughout the eastern USA reaching as far north as Canada, and south to the Mississippi River (4).

You can view distribution information for this species at the National Biodiversity Network Gateway.

Habitat

A very adaptable species, the grey squirrel prefers mature broadleaved woodlands with a rich understorey layer (4). It also occurs in conifer woodlands, urban areas where there are mature trees, as well as gardens and parks (5).